China is urging “calm and restraint” in the wake of heightened tensions and military actions between Russia and Ukraine, signifying the urgency of negotiations and diplomatic resolutions.
At a Glance
- China stresses de-escalation and diplomacy amid Russia-Ukraine conflicts.
- Hypersonic missile strike by Russia raises global tension.
- NATO members criticize China’s neutral position.
- Putin tests new missile, threatens further strikes.
China’s Call for Calm
Amid Russia’s missile attack on Ukraine, China has called for calm and restraint from involved parties. China’s foreign ministry emphasized the importance of de-escalation through dialogue and consultation. This plea is consistent with China’s stance of remaining neutral, while also maintaining significant ties with Russia.
Russia claims the missile attack disrupted Ukraine’s military plans for 2025. This development has further strained the already tense situation, with additional reports of a deadly drone attack in Sumy, Ukraine, causing civilian casualties and injuries.
China's position on the #Ukraine issue is consistent and clear, and China advocates for resolving the crisis through political means and avoiding escalation of the situation. In the current situation, all parties should remain calm and restrained, work to de-escalate tensions… pic.twitter.com/UrPkOHP81M
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) November 22, 2024
International Reactions
Western countries, including NATO members, have expressed dissatisfaction with China’s stance, suggesting that China’s reluctance to criticize the conflict indirectly supports escalation. The missile strike, described by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz as a “terrible escalation,” is part of broader Russian military advances in Ukraine.
“Under the current circumstances, all parties should remain calm and exercise restraint, working together through dialogue and consultation to ease tensions and reduce strategic risks,” foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said.
NATO’s and Ukrainian representatives plan to discuss this aggressive move in Brussels, aiming to formulate a response to Russia’s escalated tactics. The recent attacks are complicating global diplomatic efforts as President Putin hints at possible further strikes while suggesting that civilians will receive prior warnings.
🇨🇳🇷🇺 China says all parties must remain calm and exercise restraint following Ukraine's use of US and UK supplied missiles to strike Russian territory.
"China's stance of encouraging all parties to de-escalate the situation and commit to a political resolution of the Ukraine… pic.twitter.com/2FdIj0e83l
— BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) November 21, 2024
China’s Neutral Stance and Criticism
While China urges a political resolution to the Ukraine crisis, its economic and political alliance with Russia draws scrutiny from NATO allies. Key Western figures, such as French President Emmanuel Macron, urge China to exert its influence over Russia to assist in reducing hostilities. Meanwhile, the United States and its allies have condemned Russia’s nuclear posture as irresponsible and threatening.
“China’s position on the Ukraine issue has been consistent and clear, advocating for resolving the crisis through political means and avoiding an escalation of the situation,” Jian said.
The complexities of China’s stance, and its perceived inaction, remain key elements of the debate over the best way forward in seeking peace. As discussions in Brussels continue, the international community watches closely in anticipation of a path to de-escalation.
